OCD Treatment in Ocala, FL | Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder Florida

Approximately 1% of the adult population of America struggles with obsessive-compulsive disorder, according to sources like the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA). These same organizations note that obsessive-compulsive disorder, often shortened to OCD, is most often diagnosed around the age of 19, though up to 25% of adults with OCD experience symptoms during childhood. Children and teens often lack the self-awareness to understand that their actions are obsessive or compulsive; unless a parent, teacher or other adult figure notices symptoms and advocates for treatment, OCD often goes untreated until adulthood.

But once OCD is identified, it is treatable through avenues like psychotherapy and medication. Behavioral therapy in particular has been shown to be especially effective, as this approach help those with OCD manage obsessive-compulsive habits and learn coping mechanisms to reverse them. While OCD, like many mental health disorders, is a chronic illness that doesn’t necessarily have a one-time cure, it is very possible to develop a system that successfully manages symptoms for the rest of an individual’s life. Even if you feel as though you are stuck in a cycle of OCD or any possibly related concerns, you should seek professional advice and treatment — there is always hope for a long-lasting recovery.

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder?

The most recognizable symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder are behaviors, usually repetitive ones, that an individual feels a strong need to perform in certain situations. The actions (compulsions) are typically brought on by irrational thoughts or urges (obsessions). Examples may include:

An obsessive worry about germs and compulsive hand-washing
Obsessions centering around household safety and compulsive door- or window-locking
Obsessive thoughts about order and symmetry and constant rearranging of items

The ADAA points out that not all obsessions and compulsions have a clear connection, and that those with OCD may experience a variety of these thoughts and behaviors. The important distinction is that OCD behaviors are different than having everyday rituals, habits or preferences. Those who have OCD struggle with an anxious need to complete compulsive actions and can’t control themselves. They may recognize that they are acting in ways that are out of the ordinary but are unable to stop themselves, even if they know that their actions are interfering with their everyday life. If OCD symptoms begin to affect an individual’s ability to interact with others, contribute in the workplace or be in public, the struggling individual may turn to unhealthy methods to alleviate their concerns, such as avoidance of triggers, increasingly drastic compulsions or self-medicating with substance abuse. If you notice signs of this in yourself or your loved one, you should seek professional treatment — therapy or medical intervention can help restore a sense of normalcy in a much healthier way.

OCD and Underlying Causes

The NIMH notes that those who have experienced abuse or trauma are at a higher risk of developing OCD — some experts believe that compulsive actions may emerge as a means of coping with the difficult-to-process realities of traumatic experiences. It’s not uncommon for those with OCD to discover that their disorder and the related symptoms were brought on by a particular experience, and to find that treating both the underlying cause and the symptoms brings greater relief than treating symptoms alone.

Additionally, OCD is often accompanied by other disorders such as anxiety, depression, body dysmorphia or substance abuse. These co-occurring concerns can make the symptoms of OCD worse or can contribute to triggering obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Much like survivors of trauma or abuse, those who struggle with multiple concerns often find that addressing both OCD and any associated disorders provides a longer-lasting recovery and better methods of management than when OCD is treated as a single entity.

Treating and Managing OCD at The Guest House

At The Guest House, we have a deep understanding of the ways that mental health disorders and underlying or accompanying concerns can impact your life. Many members of our exceptional staff have personally experienced trauma, loss or burnout that led them down a path of self-destructive behaviors. Whether you are feeling trapped by OCD, depression or anxiety; whether you are struggling with an eating disorder; or whether you have fallen into substance abuse habits; the doors at The Guest House are open to welcome you.

When it comes to OCD, we offer a variety of therapeutic modalities that are known to be effective in treating and managing symptoms, including individual and group talk therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy as well as medication management. We also work closely with you to uncover any associated concerns, and our expert staff is equipped to help you create a treatment plan that encompasses everything that is ailing you. We champion a holistic approach that restores you on multiple levels — mind, body and spirit — so you can return to independent life feeling healed and prepared for different kinds of challenges. We can give you the tools you need to succeed in managing your disorder every day, including healthy coping mechanisms, a support system and a strong sense of self-confidence.